Accidents with 18-wheelers in St. Louis, Missouri, often result in devastating outcomes. These accidents can happen in an instant, leaving drivers and passengers with severe injuries or worse. Unfortunately, even the most cautious drivers can find themselves in a crash when a truck driver makes a careless mistake.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision with an 18-wheeler or a semi-truck, our experienced St. Louis 18-wheeler accident lawyers can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Imagine that you’re driving home on I-70 after visiting a family member at the Homer G. Phillips Memorial Hospital when an 18-wheeler abruptly changes lanes and sideswipes your car, resulting in a multi-car pileup with injuries and damaged vehicles.

In another scenario, perhaps you’re heading to work at the United Fruit & Produce Company on I-44, stuck in heavy traffic. Suddenly, a speeding 18-wheeler slams into the back of your car because truck driver had fallen asleep at the wheel due to fatigue.

While these are hypothetical situations, these examples underline how dangerous semi-truck collisions can be, and how they can lead to life-altering consequences.

In situations like these, contacting an experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer in St. Louis, Missouri, is crucial. They will work to hold the responsible parties accountable and ensure you receive total and fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Why Are There So Many 18-Wheelers On St. Louis Highways?

Due to its strategic location in Missouri, St. Louis is a central hub for trucking. This makes it a prime spot for freight movement across the country. Missouri’s geographic advantages make it a key player in the trucking industry, as it is a central point for distributing goods from coast to coast.

With its proximity to the Midwest and southern regions, St. Louis sits at the crossroads of vital national routes, including I-55, I-44, I-70, and I-64. These highways are heavily traveled by 18-wheelers carrying goods across the nation.

The trucking industry in Missouri moves a wide range of products, including agricultural goods, automobiles, and manufactured items. Missouri is a leader in agriculture, with truckloads of corn, soybeans, and cattle frequently transported through the state. Additionally, the state’s manufacturing sector is robust, producing vehicles, chemicals, and machinery, all of which are regularly hauled by large trucks.

Another significant reason for the high number of 18-wheelers in St. Louis is the presence of the Port of Metropolitan St. Louis. This deep-water port is vital in moving cargo along the Mississippi River, connecting railways, highways, and waterways to transport goods efficiently. These elements make the St. Louis area a central hub for logistics and distribution.

As a result, thousands of 18-wheelers pass through St. Louis each day, delivering products and materials that keep industries running. While this is good for commerce, it also means more truck traffic on the roads, increasing the risk of accidents.

For immediate legal assistance from an experienced St. Louis 18-wheeler accident lawyer contact our law firm today. We offer free case evaluations.

Do 18-Wheeler Accidents Happen Often in St. Louis, Missouri?

18-wheeler accidents occur frequently in St. Louis and across Missouri. Data from the Missouri Department of Transportation shows that in 2023, there were 137 fatalities involving commercial motor vehicles statewide, reflecting the significant risk these large trucks pose to other drivers on the road.

With highways like I-70, I-44, and I-55 running through St. Louis, it’s no surprise that many of these accidents happen in and around the city, where truck traffic is constant.

Additional data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) also points to the severity of the problem and shows that Missouri experienced 5230 crashes involving large trucks in 2023.

These accidents resulted in over 2000 injuries, showing that while not every accident is deadly, the potential for serious harm is always present when an 18-wheeler is involved.

Furthermore, the FMCSA data highlights that Missouri ranks consistently high in commercial vehicle crashes compared to other states, underscoring the dangers on Missouri’s highways.

For more Missouri truck accident statistics reach out to our skilled and experienced St. Louis 18-wheeler accident attorneys. Our legal team is never too busy to speak with you and answer any questions you may have.

What Are The Most Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in St. Louis, Missouri?

18-wheeler accidents in St. Louis can occur in various ways, each with unique dangers and potential consequences. Understanding the most common types of truck accidents can help drivers stay aware of the risks these large vehicles pose on Missouri highways.

Jackknife Accidents: These accidents happen when a truck’s trailer swings out from behind the cab, forming an angle resembling a folding pocket knife. In 2021, Missouri experienced 161 jackknife crashes, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol. These crashes can lead to multi-car pileups, especially on busy highways like I-70 and I-64, where sudden swerves are more likely.
Tire Blowouts: A sudden tire burst can cause the truck to swerve uncontrollably, creating dangerous conditions for other drivers nearby. Tire blowouts often result from poor maintenance or road hazards.
Wide-turn accidents: Large trucks often need extra space to complete turns. When a driver swings out into another lane to make a wide turn and doesn’t account for surrounding traffic, it can lead to a collision with vehicles in the truck’s blind spots.
Blind Spot Accidents: 18-wheelers have significant blind spots along the sides and rear. If a truck driver doesn’t see a vehicle in these blind spots while changing lanes or turning, it can result in a severe crash.
Rear-End Collisions: Due to their immense size, 18-wheelers require much longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles. When truck drivers are tired or distracted, they may fail to stop quickly, causing a rear-end collision.
Underride Accidents: One of the most deadly types of accidents, underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle becomes trapped underneath a truck’s trailer. These accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. While trucks must have guards to prevent these crashes, they still happen, especially when a truck stops suddenly or makes a wide turn.
Improperly Loaded Freight: Cargo that is not adequately secured or balanced can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable or spill its load onto the highway, endangering other motorists.
Rollover Accidents: Rollovers can occur when a truck driver loses control of their vehicle, often due to speeding, sharp turns, or improperly loaded cargo. When an 18-wheeler tips over, it can block multiple lanes of traffic, causing pileups and severe injuries to other drivers.

These common types of 18-wheeler accidents highlight the significant dangers posed by these large trucks. Data from the Missouri State Highway Patrol shows how frequent and deadly these crashes can be. Knowing these risks is critical to staying safe for St. Louis drivers.

For more information on the types of truck accidents, reach out to our experienced St. Louis 18-wheeler accident lawyers today. We offer free consultations.

Why Are These Accidents Involving 18-Wheelers Happening in St. Louis, Missouri?

Accidents involving 18-wheelers in St. Louis occur for various reasons, ranging from driver behavior to external conditions like weather and poor road infrastructure. Here are the fundamental causes contributing to these crashes:

Driver-Related Causes

One of the most common reasons for 18-wheeler accidents is driver error. Truck drivers often work under pressure, leading to issues like:

Driver Fatigue: Long hours behind the wheel without sufficient breaks can lead to exhaustion, severely impairing reaction times and judgment. Fatigue is a known risk factor for highway crashes.
Distracted Driving: Truckers are just as prone to distractions as any other driver. Texting, eating, or using a GPS while driving takes their attention away from the road, increasing the risk of an accident.
Substance Abuse: Although less frequent, some drivers may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, impairing their ability to control such massive vehicles.
Lack of Training: Handling an 18-wheeler requires skill and experience. Inadequately trained drivers are more likely to make mistakes, such as misjudging stopping distances or failing to handle emergencies properly.

Non-Driver-Related Causes

Not all 18-wheeler accidents are the result of driver mistakes. There are several other causes related to the trucks themselves:

Mechanical Failures: Issues like brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or steering failures are common. Poor maintenance or defective parts can lead to these dangerous mechanical breakdowns.
Improperly Loaded Cargo: An unbalanced or overweight load can make it difficult for the driver to control the truck, leading to rollovers or jackknife accidents. Improperly loaded cargo has been a contributing factor in numerous crashes across Missouri.

Road and Weather Conditions

Missouri’s challenging weather conditions also significantly contribute to 18-wheeler accidents. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 1,658 crashes in 2021 were caused by icy roads. Snow, fog, and rain make it harder for large trucks to stop or maneuver, especially on busy highways.

Poor road infrastructure, such as potholes or narrow lanes, also contributes to accidents, as large trucks struggle to navigate safely in these conditions.

By understanding these factors, drivers and policymakers alike can work toward making St. Louis highways safer for everyone.

To learn more about the causes of 18-wheeler accidents, consult with a knowledgeable St. Louis personal injury lawyer from our law firm today.

How Are Truck Accident Injury Claims Different From Car Accident Claims?

Truck accident injury claims differ from car accident claims in several key ways, primarily due to the size of the vehicles involved, the complexity of regulations, and the potential for severe injuries. Here’s a breakdown of how these claims vary:

Larger Scale of Damages

The sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers compared to passenger vehicles make truck accidents far more destructive. This often results in more severe injuries, extensive property damage, and, tragically, higher fatality rates.

As a result, injury claims involving trucks usually seek much higher compensation than those involving car accidents, as medical expenses, rehabilitation, and long-term care are often much more significant.

Federal Regulations and Complex Liability

Unlike car accidents, truck accidents involve a web of federal regulations overseen by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules govern everything from service hours to vehicle maintenance, making truck accident cases more complex.

Determining fault often requires investigating the trucking company’s compliance with these regulations. Additionally, Liability may be spread across multiple parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, or even manufacturers of faulty truck parts.

Larger Insurance Policies

Due to the potential for severe damage, trucking companies must carry higher levels of insurance than standard passenger vehicles. While this might seem beneficial for victims, it can also mean that insurance companies fight harder to reduce or deny claims, requiring truck accident victims to have solid legal representation.

Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone injured in a truck accident, as facing the complexities often requires the help of a skilled and experienced St. Louis 18-wheeler accident lawyer.

What Are the Federal and State Regulations For 18-Wheelers in St. Louis, Missouri?

As we mentioned, operating an 18-wheeler in St. Louis, Missouri, comes with strict federal and state regulations to protect public safety and ensure trucks are maintained and operated correctly.

These regulations impact everything from how long a truck driver can stay behind the wheel to how the vehicles must be inspected and maintained.

Federal Trucking Regulations

At the federal level, the FMCSA regulations regulate commercial trucking nationwide. These rules limit a truck driver’s hours on duty, require regular breaks, and ensure that truckers are well-rested before getting on the road.

These regulations also cover critical areas such as drug and alcohol testing, proper loading and weight limits, and regular maintenance of the truck’s components.

If these rules are violated and an accident occurs, it can strengthen the injured party’s claim for compensation. In addition, temporary changes to these regulations, such as relaxed service hours during emergencies, can also impact the outcome of an accident case.

Missouri State Trucking Regulations

Missouri has regulations for 18-wheelers in addition to the federal guidelines. These rules cover vehicle safety requirements, including proper weight distribution and securing cargo to prevent dangerous shifts while on the road.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol also requires trucks to undergo regular inspections to meet state safety standards. For example, truck drivers must comply with the state’s inspection and maintenance protocols to reduce the risk of mechanical failure.

These inspections are crucial for identifying faulty brakes, worn tires, or improperly maintained equipment.

Driver Safety Requirements

Missouri also imposes specific driver safety requirements to help reduce the risk of accidents. Drivers must maintain accurate hours logs and undergo mandatory safety training to stay current on driving practices and emergency procedures.

Strict enforcement of these rules, combined with FMCSA regulations, helps keep St. Louis highways safer for everyone on the road.

How is Liability Determined in an 18-Wheeler Accident in St. Louis, Missouri?

Determining Liability in an 18-wheeler accident is often complex due to the number of parties that can be involved. Unlike typical car accidents, where only the drivers might be at fault, truck accidents may involve:

The truck driver.
The trucking company.
The manufacturer of the truck or its parts.
The cargo loaders.

Depending on the circumstances of the crash, each party could share responsibility. While driver negligence, such as distracted driving, fatigue, or speeding, is a common cause, the trucking company may also be liable.

Trucking companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers, maintaining the trucks in safe working conditions, and adhering to federal safety regulations. They could be held accountable if they fail to do any of these.

Additionally, if defective parts contributed to the accident, the manufacturer or the company responsible for the truck’s maintenance might also be liable. Sometimes, the company responsible for loading the cargo can be at fault if the load is improperly secured or exceeds weight limits.

Shared Fault and Missouri’s Comparative Negligence Rule

Missouri follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning more than one party can be held responsible for an accident, including the injured party.

If you’re found partially at fault for the crash, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your total compensation will be reduced by 20%.

How is Fault Percentage Calculated?

Fault is typically determined by analyzing evidence from the accident, such as police reports, witness statements, and expert testimony. Each party’s degree of fault is expressed as a percentage, directly impacting how much compensation each party is entitled to or must pay.

This process can be complicated in truck accidents due to the number of potentially liable parties, so working with a St. Louis 18-wheeler accident lawyer can be crucial to ensure a thorough investigation and that all responsible parties are held accountable.

What Compensation Is Available After an 18-Wheeler Accident in St. Louis?

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in St. Louis, you may be entitled to significant compensation to cover the costs of your injuries and other damages.

The compensation awarded typically falls into two categories: economic and non-economic damages. These categories reflect the financial and personal losses you may experience following the accident.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are meant to compensate for the direct financial costs associated with the accident. These costs are often accessible to quantify and may include:

Medical expenses: This includes the cost of hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future medical treatments related to your injuries.
Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for your lost income while recovering.
Loss of earning capacity: If your injuries are long-term or permanent, and you can no longer work in the same capacity, you may be compensated for the diminished ability to earn a living.
Property damage covers repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other property damaged in the accident.
Rehabilitation costs: Compensation can cover the cost of rehabilitation services, such as physical or occupational therapy, to help you recover.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are more subjective and compensate for the emotional and psychological impact of the accident. These may include:

Pain and suffering: This compensation covers the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and its aftermath.
Emotional distress: This includes anxiety, depression, or PTSD that may result from the trauma of the accident.
Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying activities or hobbies you once loved, you may be compensated for that loss.
Loss of consortium: This compensates for the negative impact on relationships, particularly if the accident has affected your ability to maintain normal relationships with family members.

Understanding the full scope of compensation available is crucial for recovering financially and emotionally. Working with an experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer in St. Louis, Missouri, can help ensure you receive fair compensation for all your damages.

Experienced Truck Accident Lawyers in St. Louis, Missouri

At Beck & Beck Car Accident Lawyers, we are committed to helping victims of truck accidents in St. Louis get the justice and compensation they deserve. We understand the devastating impact an 18-wheeler accident can have on your life, and we work tirelessly to hold negligent truck drivers, companies, and other parties accountable.

Our experienced legal team is dedicated to providing personalized attention and thorough investigation into every case, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t face this difficult time alone. Beck & Beck Car Accident Lawyers are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward recovery.

Locations which we serve include St. Louis, Florissant, Brentwood, Central West End, University City, Maplewood, Wellston, Clayton, Richmond Heights, and more.

St. Louis 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys